Howe, though, confirmed he was considering unleashing fit-again Jermain Defoe against one of the England striker’s former sides.

“Jermain was out quite a long time with his ankle injury, but he has come back, looked good and made a difference in the Newcastle game, so certainly he is in my mind,” the Bournemouth manager said at a press conference, broadcast on the club’s official website.

“I am sure Jermain will be keen to play and show what he can do. His motivation is very high and it has been all season.

“He has always had that desire to score goals, whether in training or a match, that will never leave him.